Federal Foreign Minister Westerwelle issued the following statement on 19 March during his visit toTunisia:

“The firing of missiles by the Syrian air force at targets on Lebanese territory is an extremely serious incident and a further step that could escalate the situation, which I condemn in the strongest possible terms.

This is not the first time the Syrian regime has gravely violated the sovereignty of a neighbouring state in its war against its own people.We call with great urgency on the regime in Damascus and on all warring groups to fully respect the territorial integrity of Syria’s neighbouring states.

Like other recent events inIraqand in the border region withIsrael, the Syrian air force’s attacks on targets inLebanondemonstrate the great risk of the conflict expanding beyondSyria’s borders. We must do everything possible to tackle the threat of violence spreading throughout the region.”

Peace and Security

Regional conflicts, fragile or collapsed states, armed conflicts, terrorism and organized crime – all have grave consequences for the people who suffer under them. They also threaten the security and stability of entire regions and peoples.